Evidence supporting the use of: Bacillus coagulans
For the health condition: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bacillus coagulans is a spore-forming probiotic bacterium that has been investigated for potential benefits in gastrointestinal conditions, including Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). The rationale for its use in SIBO is primarily based on preliminary scientific research rather than tradition. Several studies have explored the role of probiotics in restoring gut microbiota balance, reducing inflammation, and competing with pathogenic bacteria. B. coagulans is particularly attractive due to its ability to survive the acidic environment of the stomach and germinate in the intestine, where it may exert its effects.

A handful of small clinical trials and case reports have evaluated probiotics in SIBO, though most do not focus exclusively on B. coagulans. One notable open-label study found that a multi-strain probiotic formula containing B. coagulans improved symptoms in SIBO patients, but the study design and lack of specificity to B. coagulans alone limit the strength of the evidence. Mechanistically, B. coagulans may help by producing lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids, which suppress the growth of potentially harmful bacteria implicated in SIBO.

Overall, while there is some emerging scientific rationale and early evidence, high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials directly studying B. coagulans for SIBO are lacking. Thus, the evidence is still considered limited (rated 2/5), and more research is needed before it can be strongly recommended for SIBO management.

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